A history of innovation, experience, and excellence
With an open mind and eagerness to embrace new challenges, we’ve endured steep learning curves and a rapid ascent to build many of our innovative projects in-house using our skills, expertise and world-class facilities.
Our history
Since it was founded by Kelvin Smith in 1985, KS Composites has continuously evolved to become a leading global force in composite and GRP development and manufacturing. As a company, we actively seek new technology and solutions, ensuring constant dynamic improvements to keep up with ever-changing Research & Development.
Today the company remains true to its origins and is led by Jamie Smith, son of Kelvin, who has a hands on role as Managing Director of our 100+ workforce based in Leicestershire.
Originally working in the historic motorsports sector, we built a strong reputation as the UK’s leading fabricator, renovator and repairer of GRP body work. From the manufacture of Ford’s GT40, through to the restoration of the Le Mans-winning Silk Cut Jaguars, consistent quality meant an ever growing and loyal client base.
Swiftly embracing new composites technology, we moved into many new and ambitious industries, cementing our position as a leader within the composite and GRP manufacturing market.
We’ve endured steep learning curves and a rapid ascent to build many of our innovative projects in-house using our skills, expertise and world-class facilities.
In 2018, our premises in Long Clawson, Leicestershire, were hit by a devastating overnight fire. This became one of the primary reasons for our relocation to new premises in the village of Old Dalby. This new site boasts 48,000 sq ft, an increase of over 30,000 sq ft, and will see production centralised from a single building.
-
1985Company founded by Kelvin Smith.
-
1994Manufacturing with carbon fibre composites in addition to fibre glass begins.
-
1995KS manufacture Lister Storm road cars and Le Mans cars in carbon and support the team at the Le Mans 24 hrs race.
-
1998Company grows significantly across contemporary motorsport, working for numerous F1, LMP, GT and BTCC teams and others beyond.
-
2011Formal relationship with Jaguar Land Rover commences (having historically worked indirectly for them) and the delivery of 6 prototype supercars.
-
2018A mechanical fire at the Long Clawson premises devastates the company but doesn’t halt production and sparks the turning point of a move to new facilities.
-
2019Following a large investment production moves to new premises in Old Dalby.
Our team
Jamie Smith
Managing Director
Daniel Swain
Director & Account Manager
Gitesh Patel
Finance Director
Naomi Johnson
Account Manager
Alastair Trimmer
QSHE Manager
Dan Johnston
Business Development Manager
Jessica Walker
PR and Marketing Manager
Dannii Rawlings
HR Manager
